How to file an auto claim

1. Exchange information with the other driver involved in the collision.

   Get the other driver’s:

   • name and address
   • driver’s licence number
   • licence plate number

   Our Collision Report Form (PDF) can help you remember what information to collect. Print a copy and keep it in your glove box.

   If applicable, get the names and addresses of any witnesses. Witnesses can be crucial in determining who’s at fault or responsible for the collision.

   When to report your collision to the police

   You must report the collision to police if any of the following circumstances apply:

   • the collision results in injury or death
   • it’s a hit and run
   • a driver is impaired
   • any of the vehicles involved have to be towed from the scene
   • the collision involves a vehicle that does not have a valid licence plate or is an out-of-province vehicle

   In addition, loss or damage to your vehicle caused by vandalism, malicious damage, theft or attempted theft must also be reported to police.

2. File your claim.

   To file your claim, you can choose one of the following:

   • Use our online claim registration service, Auto eClaim where you can arrange to have your vehicle appraised and the damage assessed.
   • Call our Dial-a-Claim service during normal office hours at the claims centre closest to your home. We’ll set up an appointment to have your vehicle appraised and the damage assessed.

   Have the following information ready when reporting your claim:

   • your driver’s licence
   • your vehicle registration
   • if applicable, your SGI CANADA Auto Pak policy number

   If your vehicle isn’t safe to drive, we’ll arrange to have it towed to one of our claims centres.

3. Meet with an appraiser.

   On the day of your appointment, drive your vehicle to the claims centre. The appraiser will assess the damage to your vehicle and the cost of the repairs.

   If the appraiser failed to notice some damage, bring any missed and/or hidden damage to the attention of your autobody repairer, who will contact SGI and arrange to have your vehicle re-inspected at the shop.

   If your vehicle can’t be repaired, your adjuster will advise you of the process for a “total loss” vehicle.

4. Have your vehicle repaired.

   Once the appraisal is done, you’ll get a report outlining the cost of repairs if your vehicle is repairable.

   You can have your vehicle repaired at the autobody shop of your choice after the adjuster confirms your insurance coverage is in order with the deductible and any depreciation that may be applicable.

   Renting a car during repairs

   The cost of a rental vehicle is covered if:

   • you’re the innocent party and require a replacement vehicle, providing the responsible party’s insurance coverage is in order
   • you have an SGI CANADA Auto Pak with All Perils Coverage and your vehicle was stolen or hit by an animal. You are automatically provided with coverage of $30 a day to a 30-day maximum to cover taxi, bus or vehicle rental costs.
   • you have an SGI CANADA Auto Pak and have selected the optional coverage for loss of use of vehicle due to other causes, such as damage from a collision, weather, etc.
5. Authorize payment.

   Once your vehicle has been repaired, the body shop will ask you to sign a Certification of Repairs. This form signifies that you're satisfied with the repairs and authorizes SGI to pay the body shop.